MORE than 80 developers, consultants and planners involved in windfarm development will gather in Battleby, near Perth on Tuesday, April 3, to share information on assessing the impacts of windfarms on birds.
The event is part of the themed Sharing Good Practice programme organised by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) in partnership with the Scottish Windfarm Bird Steering Group.
One of the main aspects of the day will be for industry and science delegates to share their experiences and findings from monitoring windfarm impacts after construction.
Findings of the effects of windfarms on birds will be presented at the event
The event will also focus on the work of the Scottish Windfarm Bird Steering Group. This group will bring together the results of studies at individual windfarm sites and analyse these to provide a better understanding of how individual species are impacted by windfarms across Scotland.
This understanding is vital to ensure that new windfarm applications can be assessed on the best possible information, ensuring that bird populations are appropriately protected while new developments are not unduly constrained.
Environment Minister, Stewart Stevenson, will give the closing address on the day. Speaking ahead of the event, he said: “The Scottish Government has set ambitious targets on reducing our carbon emissions. One of the many positive benefits of this is the rapid development of the Scottish Renewables industry bringing jobs and expertise to communities across Scotland. The challenge for us all is to make sure that these developments continue and that the local environment remains protected and managed. Groups like these represent an important part of the future for Scotland and I look forward to hearing people sharing their experiences and expertise.”
